These Are the 12 Best Countries for Catholic Expats
These Are the 12 Best Countries for Catholic Expats
More and more Americans are embracing the idea of setting down roots in another country for various reasons. Whether a college student, already retired or somewhere in between, read on if you’ve considered immigrating and wondered where you may feel most at home as a Catholic. Here are 12 amazing options and why these best countries for Catholics might include the next place you’ll call home:
East Timor
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Starting with the most exotic location on the list, this former Portuguese colony has only gained its independence within the last 25 years. Officially called “the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste,” 97% of this southeast Asian country identifies as Catholic—one of the highest population percentages in the world. East Timor ranks as Southeast Asia’s only free and fair democracy in 2023. It also uses the U.S. dollar as currency, making this island country an enticing option for expats seeking familiar features abroad.
Brazil
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Brazil is said to have the highest Catholic population worldwide, with about 54.2% of residents identifying as Catholic—roughly 126.8 million people. Since the Portuguese conquered Brazil in the 16th century, the Catholic Church has shaped Brazilian culture. Events like the Patroness festival honor Catholic saints or relate to events in the holy calendar. Outside of metropolitan cities like Brasilia, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, countless towns and villages beckon you to see why over 200 million people call Brazil home.
➤ Learn more about moving to Brazil
Mexico
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Our southern neighbor Mexico has a substantial Catholic population; approximately 82.7% of Mexicans identify withe the religion. Mexico’s is home to many famous Catholic sites, including the Basilica de Guadalupe, Teotihuacan Pyramids, and the Templo Mayor. These locales represent the blend of pre-Hispanic and Christian traditions in Mexico. The warm climate and proximity to the United States help keep Mexico a popular destination to start a new life.
➤ Learn more about moving to Mexico
Philippines
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Another island nation making our list, an estimated 85% of Filipinos identifying as Catholic. The Philippines’ rich Catholic heritage stems from its long history as a Spanish colony, with Catholicism playing a significant role in its colonial, post-colonial, and present-day eras. A relatively low cost of living, friendly people, and warm climate keep the Philippines a popular expat destination.
➤ Learn more about moving to the Philippines
Italy
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Italy is our first recommendation in Europe, where a strong Catholic presence and rich Catholic history extends back to the religion’s beginning. Home to Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and more, Italy is an obvious choice for any Catholic seeking a new country to call home. With its Mediterranean climate, vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights, the possibilities of a life in Italy remain enticing for devout Catholics.
➤ Learn more about moving to Italy
Poland
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The next European country is Poland, where 85.8% of the population identify as Catholic. Poland has a deeply rooted Catholic tradition, known for its religious devotion and being the birthplace of Pope John Paul II. With a lower cost of living than many other European countries, Poland’s growing job market, good quality of life, and rich cultural heritage may be exactly what you are looking for.
➤ Learn more about moving to Poland
Spain
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Spain remains a popular destination for American expats. With about 71.8% of Spaniards identifying as Catholic, the religion’s influence can be seen throughout Spain’s churches, museums, and everyday life. There is even a patron saint for every village, town, and city in Spain.
➤ Learn more about moving to Spain
Argentina
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Catholicism is the dominant religion in Argentina, with approximately 66% of the population identifying as Catholic. Countless churches, parishes, and cathedrals can be found throughout the country. With a rich culture, incredible wines and culinary delights, low cost of living and welcoming citizens, Argentina could be just what you are looking for.
➤ Learn more about moving to Argentina
Ireland
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Ireland has strong ties to Catholicism: 69% of its population reported to be Catholic in the 2022 census. With 3.7 million members, the Irish Catholic Church is the largest Christian church in Ireland. The country has four officially canonized Irish saints and many other commonly recognized saints, including St. Patrick and St. Brigid. With a great work-life balance, high-paying jobs, mild climate, and breathtaking scenery, it’s easy to see how you could feel right at home on the Emerald Isle.
➤ Learn more about moving to Ireland
Portugal
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Approximately 80% of Portugal’s population identifies as Catholic. Many famous Catholic sites and shrines can be found throughout Portugal: the pilgrimage site Fátima in central Portugal, honoring the Virgin Mary; Lisbon Cathedral; and Basilica of the Holy Trinity, the fourth largest Catholic Church in the world. Along with world class healthcare, affordable cost of living and public transportation, rich culture and pleasant climate, Portugal may be your dream come true.
➤ Learn more about moving to Portugal
Malta
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Malta is considered one of the most Catholic countries in the world, with Catholicism being the state religion. There is a high level of religious freedom and a strong Catholic community throughout Malta, with more than one church per square kilometer. Malta’s patron saints are St. Agatha, St. Paul, and St. Publius. Malta was the first European nation to embrace Christianity. Today, expats embrace Malta’s low cost of living, excellent healthcare, low unemployment and rich culture, where 90% of the population speaks English.
➤ Learn more about moving to Malta
Ivory Coast
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Catholicism came to Ivory Coast via French settlers in the mid-17th century; today, approximately 3 million baptized Catholics in Ivory Coast. The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro, located in the city of Yamoussoukro, is the largest church in the world. Known as the “Land of Opportunities” to expatriates around the world, this country’s mix of African and French cultures, vibrant economy, low cost of living, and diverse population make this West African country a worthy contender for your next home.
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Trent Anderson
Trent has a BA and BBA from Eastern Michigan University with concentrations in marketing and German. He's passionate about traveling internationally and learning foreign languages. Trent has studied French, German, Dutch, and Spanish, and hopes to learn Polish and Catalán someday as well. He's scouting Spain in early 2024 and hoping to move to Barcelona or another large city in 2024 or 2025. Trent enjoys supporting creators on TikTok and can often be found in the live Expatsi chats.
